Kidney Commute
The Kidney Commute Podcast seeks to enhance the work of the interprofessional kidney care team by providing connection through education and serving as an innovative opportunity to fulfill CE requirements.
Episodes
Pitstop: No Hocus, Just POCUS: Advances in Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Nephrology
Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is expanding how nephrologists assess patients—looking beyond the kidneys to inform care. In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, a panel of POCUS experts explores recent advances, practical applications, and ongoing debates. The conversation also covers barriers to adoption, training and credentialing, and the evolving role of POCUS in nephrology education and ev
Pitstop: Renal Artery Stenosis: Rethinking Diagnosis and Treatment
Join Drs. Osama El Shamy and Adina Voiculescu for a discussion on how the diagnosis and management of renal artery stenosis have evolved over time. The episode explores available imaging techniques, including the role of ultrasound, and reviews lessons from clinical trials. Listeners will also hear about current medical management, endovascular and surgical treatment options, expected outcomes, re
Pitstop: Updates in Kidney Transplantation
Kidney transplantation continues to evolve. These advances bring new opportunities and questions for clinicians and patients. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pit Stop, host Dr. Sam Kant is joined by Dr. Vineeta Kumar. Dr. Kumar is a tenured professor of medicine and the Robert and Cutessa Bourge Endowed Professor in Transplant Nephrology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. They discuss
Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Advancing Lupus Nephritis Management
This episode features authors of the KDOQI US Commentary on the KDIGO 2024 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Lupus Nephritis. Experts Dr. Gabriel Contreras and Dr. Sayna Norouzi joins host, Dr. Osama El Shamy to explore key guideline updates and how the recommendations can be applied in clinical practice. They discuss current approaches to diagnosis, newer therapies, treatment stra
Urgent PD Starts in the ICU: Rethinking Acute Dialysis Care
Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is often overlooked when critically ill patients need urgent or emergent dialysis. This episode explores patient selection, contraindications, and how PD compares with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). The panel also discusses informed consent, program challenges, and the transition from the hospital to home. Patient advocate Andreas Price shares his personal ex
Pitstop: From Red Flags to Rapid Response: Urgent Decision-Making in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis Care
ANCA-associated vasculitis is a rare autoimmune disease that can rapidly damage the kidneys, lungs, and other organs. Early recognition and prompt treatment are essential.
In this episode of Kidney Commute Pit Stop, host Dr. Osama El Shamy is joined by rheumatologist Dr. Anisha Dua, nephrologist Dr. Duvuru Geetha, and kidney transplant recipient Melissa Rubio. Together they explore common signs an
Pitstop: Beyond Binders: Evolving the Hyperphosphatemia Playbook
Hyperphosphatemia affects a significant proportion of patients receiving dialysis and remains a complex challenge for kidney care teams. In this episode of Kidney Commute Pit Stop, Anna Gaddy welcomes nephrologist Jessica Kendrick, clinical pharmacist Kimberly Holdener, and renal nutrition expert David St-Jules to explore what phosphorus management looks like in 2026.
The panel discusses the evol
Pitstop: Plant-based Enteral Formulas for People with CKD
Disclosure: The content and opinions of the podcast are those of the guests; these are not claims or recommendations for Kate Farms products.
Plant-based nutrition has emerged as an important component of kidney care, but questions remain about how plant-based enteral formulas can best support people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pit Stop, host Dr. Ra
Hidden Phosphorus: Understanding Phosphate Additives in Food
Phosphate additives are commonly used in processed and convenience foods, yet many patients and healthcare professionals remain unaware of how significantly they contribute to phosphorus burden in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Elevated phosphorus levels can negatively impact bone, cardiovascular, and overall kidney health, making phosphorus management an important aspect of kidney care.
In this ep
Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Optimizing Management of IgAN and IgAV
IgA nephropathy and IgA vasculitis remain complex and evolving areas in nephrology care. In this episode, experts discuss key insights from the KDIGO guidelines and KDOQI commentary published in AJKD, focusing on updated approaches to risk stratification, disease progression, and treatment decision making.
The conversation highlights the role of supportive care, immunosuppressive therapy considera
Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Improving Anemia Management in CKD
Anemia in chronic kidney disease remains common, complex, and rapidly evolving. In this episode, experts discuss key updates from the 2026 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guidelines and AJKD commentary, including a stronger focus on identifying and treating iron deficiency and refining treatment strategies.
The conversation explores the clinical impact of anemia on cardiovascular risk and quality of life,
Pitstop: Congress Cares about Kidneys: Unpacking the recent congressional hearing about kidney health
Kidney care rarely takes center stage in Congress, but a recent hearing is bringing renewed attention to prevention, innovation, and patient access. In this episode, host Raphy Rosen is joined by Dr. Suzanne Watnick, who testified as a witness at the March 18 Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing, along with Dr. Dan Weiner. Together, they unpack key themes across CKD, dialysis, and transplant
Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI: Optimizing ADPKD Evaluation and Treatment
In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, we explore key insights from the KDIGO Commentary on the 2025 KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by Dr. Neera Dahl and Dr. Terry Watnick to discuss how the updated recommendations differ from prior guidance and what they mean for real world practice in the United States. T
Pitstop: NephMadness 2026: Cerebronephrology Region: Exploring the Intersection Between Kidney Disease and Brain Health
Hosted by Dr. Sam Kant, this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode explores the Cerebronephrology region of NephMadness 2026 and the emerging concept of the brain–kidney axis. Drs. David Drew and Colton Jensen examine how chronic kidney disease and ESKD with dialysis contribute to cognitive impairment—an underrecognized complication affecting a large proportion of patients. From early microvascular inj
Optimizing Oral Health for Kidney Transplant Success
This podcast explores the critical role of oral health in kidney transplant eligibility and outcomes. Through an interprofessional discussion, learners will examine how oral health impacts infection risk, transplant readiness, and long-term success. Notably, this episode features the valuable perspective of a dentist, highlighting the importance of integrating dental expertise into transplant care
Pitstop: APOL1 and Kidney Disease: From Theory to Practice
Advances in genetics have transformed how we understand kidney disease, and the discovery of APOL1 has been a major milestone. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Dr. Osama El Shamy is joined by Meyeon Park, MD, MAS and Denay Richards, PhD to explore the role of APOL1 genetic variants in kidney disease development and progression.
The discussion covers the epidemiology of APOL1, the i
Pitstop: Legislation and Its Effect on Dialysis Patient Choice
Legislation has played a defining role in how dialysis care is delivered in the United States, directly influencing access, coverage, and patient choice. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Lauren Drew, JD, and Eugene Lin, MD, MS, FASN for an in depth discussion on the policy decisions that have shaped kidney care.
The conversation traces k
Pitstop: Is Dialysis Nephrology’s Original Sin? A Dialogue Inspired by a Recent AJKD Publication
Is dialysis nephrology’s greatest achievement or its original sin? In this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy, welcomes Dr. Andrew Cohen, to discuss a provocative question that challenges how the field of nephrology has evolved. Drawing from Dr. Cohen’s recent AJKD publication, the conversation explores key historical milestones, including early innovations, the 1972 Medicar
Adolescence to Adult Care Transition
Navigating the transition from pediatric to adult kidney transplant care is one of the most pivotal and vulnerable periods for young patients. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, an interdisciplinary panel of nephrology, social work, nursing, pharmacy experts, and a kidney transplant recipient explore the medical, psychological, and social complexities that shape a successful transition. The di
Pitstop: Uromodulin
In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Kaice LaFavers, PhD, and Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH, to explore uromodulin. They discuss its role in infection defense, immune modulation, AKI and sepsis, genetic insights, and evolving methods to study its multiple forms. A concise, science driven look at why uromodulin matters in kidney health.
Pitstop: Part 2: Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic – Treatment and Management Principles
Effective management of obesity in patients with CKD requires a holistic, interprofessional approach. In part 2 of this episode, the conversation continues with translating the evolving evidence into practical guidance for nephrology teams. Experts review the importance of a person-centered approach integrating lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic therapies, and surgical options with a focus on
Pitstop: Part 1: Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic – Risks, Roles, and Real-World Strategies
Obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are deeply interconnected as each condition increases the risk and severity of the other. In part 1 of this episode, our interprofessional panel of experts explores the science behind this bidirectional relationship and the epidemiologic data underscoring their connection. Listeners will gain insight into the underlying pathophysiology, including the roles
Pitstop: Can a Nephrologist Say "No" to Dialysis?
When should dialysis be withheld at the end of life—and who makes that decision? Join host Raphy Rosen with experts Drs. Alvin Moss and Christine Corbett as they explore the ethical, clinical, and emotional challenges the nephrology team face when considering “no” to dialysis. Learn how shared decision-making, time-limited trials, and compassionate communication can help align care with patient va
Pitstop: Applying eGFR Trends to Clinical Practice when Treating Patients with IgAN
In this episode, we explore the evolving role of surrogate endpoints in the management of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), with a particular focus on the significance of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Of the completed Phase 3 trials in IgAN, one used time-weighted average eGFR, an area under the curve-based measure that reflects the average change in eGFR from baseline over a specified period
Benefits of Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 35 million U.S. adults, yet only a small percentage see a dietitian before starting dialysis. In this episode of Kidney Commute, experts and a patient share how Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) can slow CKD progression, improve quality of life, and support patients in making sustainable dietary changes. Listeners will also gain practical insights on in
Pitstop: The Nephrologist’s Perspective in Evaluation and Management of Localized Renal Masses: Core Curriculum 2025
In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy speaks with Drs. Susie Hu and Anthony Chang about the first AJKD Core Curriculum update since 2016 on localized renal masses. They unpack risk factors, incidental findings, treatment strategies, and the vital role nephrologists play—alongside urology and pathology—in preserving kidney function and improving patient care.
AJKD Artic
Pitstop: Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Core Curriculum 2025
Join host Dr. Sam Kant and experts Dr. Craig Gordon and Dr. Pranav Garimella as they break down the latest AJKD Core Curriculum on Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). This episode explores genetics, imaging, prognostic tools, lifestyle strategies, and management, offering practical, evidence-based insights to guide kidney care professionals.
AJKD Article: Autosomal Dominant Pol
Vascular Access and Home Hemodialysis
In this Kidney Commute episode, host Dr. Nupur Gupta is joined by Dr. Vandana Dua Niyyar, Cheryl Cress, RN, CNN, and home dialysis patient Jane DeMeis with her care partner Joe. They explore challenges and solutions in vascular access for home hemodialysis, including access types, self-cannulation, patient education, and real-world impacts. This interprofessional discussion blends clinical experti
Pitstop: Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapies from the Core Curriculum 2025
This episode delves into the updated AJKD Core Curriculum on Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapies (CKRT). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by authors J. Pedro Teixeira, Swapnil Hiremath and Edward Clark, as they explore crucial topics like the practical advantages and disadvantages of CRRT, mechanisms of hemodynamic instability with KRT, and strategies for de-escalation. This episode provides valuable
Pitstop: Active Medical Care Without Dialysis
In this episode of the Kidney Commute: Pitstop* series, host, Raphy Rosen is joined by Christine Corbett and Alvin Moss to discuss active medical care without dialysis.
Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FNKF
Guests: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF & Alvin Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM
Please visit https://www.kidney.org/podcasts/kidney-commute to view additional resources.
*The Kidney
Rolling Stones: How to Prevent and Treat Kidney Stones
Discover expert insights on kidney stone prevention and management in this episode featuring a physician, dietitian, pharmacist, and patient. Learn about key kidney stone risk factors and explore how dietary adjustments can reduce stone recurrence. Experts discuss fluid intake strategies, medication considerations, surgical indications, and even unconventional questions about roller coasters’ impa
Palliative Care and Conservative Care in CKD
Palliative care, or treatment focused on symptom management and quality of life, is an important and often overlooked aspect of care for people with kidney disease. Similarly, conservative treatment of advanced kidney disease, or medical management without dialysis or transplantation, is not well understood by patients and care providers alike. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, our interprofe
Onconephrology: Cancer and the Kidneys
Cancer is the leading cause of death in the world, associated with high morbidity and mortality. This episode discusses how kidneys are affected by cancer and its treatment. Panelists discuss diagnosing and managing complex kidney problems, such as acute kidney injury associated with cancer and novel oncological therapies, as well as summarize drug dosing in patients with cancer. Thanks for joinin
2025 CMS Updates for the Nephrology Team
2025 will bring BIG changes to the dialysis world. As of Jan 01, oral phosphorus binders will be part of the dialysis payment bundle, out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications are changing in amounts and payment models, and coverage for certain dental services is expanding, to name a few. In this episode we will explore how these changes will likely impact patients, nephrologists, and dia
Culturally Sensitive Approaches to Navigating Living Donation
Patients and care team members often encounter challenges faced by individuals from different cultural backgrounds regarding access to kidney transplantation. This episode explores the impact of a culturally sensitive approach to living donation. Panelists will discuss resources to assist with approaching these conversations effectively while taking into consideration patient-specific factors such
Potassium and CKD
Do all patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need potassium restriction? In this episode we will explore the current guidelines of potassium intake in different CKD populations. Apart from the guidelines, we will explore the potassium concentration in foods and some tips and tricks for counseling patients. After listening to this episode, you will be in a better position to talk to patients a
Reducing ASCVD Risk in CKD
People with kidney disease are at an increased risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or ASCVD, and cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with kidney disease. In this episode of the Kidney Commute our interprofessional panel of experts discusses what ASCVD is, how patients can be evaluated for their ASCVD risk, and strategies for managing and reducing this risk.
GLP1 & CKD
In this episode of the Kidney Commute podcast, panelists delve into the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in chronic kidney disease. The discussion explores the mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists, their benefits in managing both kidney disease and related comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the latest evidence supporting their use. Panelists also
Exploring Solo Home Hemodialysis - A Team Sport
Home hemodialysis (HHD) is hemodialysis that is performed at home entirely by a patient or with assistance from a care partner. Solo HHD is when a person performs their own hemodialysis at home without a care partner present. Solo HHD can be challenging for patients and requires the whole care team coming together with the patient to develop an individualized approach for each patient in order to
Updates in Glomerulonephritis and Pre-eclampsia in CKD Patients
Join our team in a discussion about diagnosis and treatment of glomerulonephritis, a common cause of kidney failure. We explore new treatment options and ways to engage patients in conversations about these options. Additionally, we unpack how to diagnose and monitor glomerulonephritis. This discussion also includes challenges faced both by patients and providers with regard to glomerulonephritis,
The Role of APP on the Nephrology Team
The management of patients living with kidney disease is evolving as the complexity of patient care evolves. Join us as we discuss the team of clinicians who are involved in the care of patients with kidney disease, including nephrologists and advanced practice providers (APPs) - advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs). This episode will review the roles of each
New Year, New You! – Leveraging Goal Setting in CKD Practice
Many people start the year full of hope and ready to start anew. Join our team in a discussion about the best times to implement new goals relative to CKD. We also explore home dialysis modalities and ways to engage patients in conversations about this option. Additionally, we unpack how and when to implement exercise programs and include tips on tackling social isolation. We hope you enjoy this p
Vitamin and Supplement Use in CKD
Join us for a robust discussion surrounding the ever-growing field of vitamins and supplements. This episode dives into the indications and contraindications for people with all stages of chronic kidney disease, including those on dialysis as well as those who have had a transplant. The panelists will also review the potential drug interactions and side effect profiles of the most commonly inqui
Holidays and CKD Part II
Having a chronic illness can be difficult for anyone. Patients with Kidney disease have to restrict their diet and also balance out restrictions associated with other medical illnesses. Considering diet and fluid restrictions while planning family meals can be physically and emotionally taxing. In this episode, you will gain insight into the patient experience of planning around the holidays and p
Hypertension and Pregnancy
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy impact many pregnancies and are associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and even mortality. In this episode of the kidney commute, we are joined by a maternal fetal medicine (high risk obstetrics) expert, as well as a nephrologist, pharmacist, and patient to discuss these disorders. Patients with kidney disease are at elevated risk of developing
Optimizing Kidney Health Care for LGBTQIA+ Patients
The National Kidney Foundation is excited bring to you an important conversation about awareness, sensitivity and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, we will discuss how the use of appropriate intake forms, use of pronouns and having open conversations can create an inclusive healthcare environment and create a shared decision making environment. Participants will receive educa
Working Towards Transplant
In this episode, we discuss the process of working towards a kidney transplant. Exploring the steps from the perspective of the patient and the different members of the healthcare team. We find out when a referral for transplant is appropriate, as well as the testing required before a patient is deemed a good candidate for a kidney transplant.
Click HERE to claim CE Credit.
Living Donation and Transplant
Transplant is the preferred modality for many people with end-stage renal disease. There are approximately 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant, with wait times exceeding 10 years in some regions. Join us on this ride as we discuss ways to find living donors as an alternative to a deceased donor kidney transplant. We will discuss the experience of living donors through the work up phase,
Sexuality and Kidney Disease
Sexual dysfunction (SD) is incredibly common in patients with kidney disease. In women, SD is classified as sexual interest/arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder, and genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder. For men, SD is classified as erectile disorder, hypoactive disorder, premature ejaculation, and delayed ejaculation. Studies have shown rates of SD as high as 92% of women with CKD and 70-85% of
Kidney Disease and the Holidays
Having a chronic illness can be difficult for anyone. ESRD requires pre-planning to include 3 or more weekly dialysis sessions while traveling. Considering diet and fluid restrictions while planning family meals can be physically and emotionally taxing. In this episode, you will gain insight into the patient experience of planning around the holidays and professional teams knowledge in providing t
Depression and Dialysis- Reviewing the ASCEND Study
This episode discusses depression in people on dialysis in light of the PCORI-funded ASCEND study. Major depressive disorder is four times more common in people undergoing long-term dialysis than in the general population and is associated with greater non-adherence, higher healthcare utilization, poorer quality of life, and higher mortality. A panel discussion puts these results in perspective a
Transitions of Care (AKI/CKD to Dialysis)
This episode discusses transitions of care for kidney patients. This includes patients who had never had any kidney issues who present to the hospital with acute kidney injury, some of whom require dialysis - at least temporarily. It includes patients who have known chronic kidney disease who crash into dialysis, as well as outpatient chronic kidney disease patients who are transitioning to outpat
Breastfeeding
Becoming a new parent can be overwhelming. A major difficulty facing new parents is determining how best to feed their new baby, and when you have kidney disease there are additional risks and benefits regarding breastfeeding versus formula feeding. In this episode of the Kidney Commute we are joined by experts who will address some of the unique issues facing new parents with kidney disease when
Dialysis Options
In this episode, the interprofessional panel will discuss the various treatment modalities available to ESKD patients. The team will outline treatment options, pros and cons of treatment options for different patients, and how treatment planning can improve patient outcomes. Hear a dietitian and social worker review the dietary and psychosocial implications of different treatment modalities.
Click
Salt Intake and CKD
In this episode we discuss salt intake in the setting of chronic kidney disease. We start our discussion defining salt vs sodium and further discuss the physiology and outcomes of a high-sodium diet. We also review the guidelines and some helpful tips on implementing them. Understanding that patient challenges to a low-sodium diet might be present, we hear from our multidisciplinary panel on recom
Reproductive Health after Transplant
In this episode of the Kidney Commute will explore the issues that are specific to women with kidney disease who undergo kidney transplant. Our interprofessional team includes a physician, Dr. Silvi Shah, who explores topics such as family planning after transplant, the impact that transplant has on fertility, and graft monitoring during pregnancy. Amanda Trinsey, who has a kidney transplant, disc
Health Literacy
Limited or low Health literacy impacts about 80 million Americans. It is associated with poor health outcomes and upwards of $236 billion in health care costs. Health literacy affects everyone, and most negatively effects communities of color. It is important to realize that limited health literacy is not always associated with education level and regardless of education, everyone should be evalu
Frailty in CKD and ESRD
Frailty syndrome is a multi-system impairment resulting in decreased reserve and resistance to stressors. For those living with renal disease and pursuing transplant this syndrome is measured by many transplant centers as frailty can impact post-transplant outcomes. Join us as we explore more about frailty risk factors, how it is measured, its impact, and how the multi-disciplinary team can addres
The Importance of Immunization in Chronic Kidney Disease: How Can We Help Patients?
Infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for patients with kidney disease, and vaccines are the cornerstone of preventing infection. Nephrologists often provide general health care to their patients so the kidney health team is well suited to address what is typically a primary practitioners area. It’s a timely topic, as we are in the midst of pandemic, however the discussion in this
Women’s Health and the Kidney
This episode is the first in a series of three that will focus on women's health and the kidney. This discussion focuses on the importance of interprofessional team communication and implementing shared decision making, as well as using an individualized approach when it comes to understanding the preferences of women with kidney disease. Amanda, a kidney disease patient and mother of three, discu
Protein in the Diet of CKD Patients
This episode discusses a topic important to all kidney patients: protein intake in the diet. It's a question asked often by patients, and can be difficult to address by providers. Recommendations change based on a patient's individual health situation, and the support of the interprofessional team can make these conversations easier to approach. The panel provides a basic overview of protein, reco
Introduction to the Kidney Health Team
This episode provides an introduction to the kidney health team through an exploration of the roles and responsibilities of key members. Panelists discuss how the team can have healthy and productive interactions, and how the kidney health team can best work collaboratively with each other and patients to help navigate patient care and achieve optimal outcomes.
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